Tuesday's Tip: Disney Character Meet & Greets

Meeting characters and getting autographs are high on our list for every Disney vacation.  When we go with kids or without, we always stand in line to meet our favorites!  Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your meet & greet time.

• When you enter the parks, get a "Times Guide."  This guide will give you times for shows, fireworks, parades, special events and character meet & greets.  Make notes of the times and locations for those "must meet" characters so you don't miss them.
• If you don't see your favorite character(s) on the Times Guide, ask a cast member at guest services at each park to see if he/ she will be making appearances.  They should be able to tell you times and locations for your favorite/ must see character, if they will be there that day.
• While you are in line, get your autograph book open to a blank page before you approach the characters.  This way you aren't wasting time finding a blank page while you are "meeting" the characters.
• Use a retractable pen so the characters don't have to fumble with pen tops. Consider using a "fat" pen too, so characters with gloves or bigger hands will have an easier time manipulating the pen.
• Have the Photopass photographer take a picture with his camera AND your camera.  That way you have 2 chances of getting that perfect shot with your favorite character.
• If you are dinging with characters, try to book the last available time slot so characters have extra time with your family!
• Engage in conversation with the characters- even if they are in a mask.  The more you talk or ask questions, the more memorable the experience will be.
• Have the characters sign something unique (a hat, pillowcase, t-shirt, photo mat, Disney encyclopedia book) to get a better response from them.  They tend to engage in more conversation when they sign a non traditional item.